Bike Path Funds Available for Local Projects

February 23, 2007
Joanne Haas, Office of the County Executive (608) 267-8823 or cell (608) 669-5606

Nearly $60,000 in Dane County funds is up for grabs for municipalities hoping to complete bicycle path-related projects in the coming two years, Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced today. “These are dollars to support local projects to either improve an existing bike route or to create one,” Falk said of the funds available through the Department of Public Works, Highway and Transportation. “Each year an exciting group of projects emerge. I can’t wait to see the ideas to help people use the trails, have fun and get healthy on their bicycles.” Applications for the dollars are being accepted until April 7 for projects that must be scheduled to start on or before Aug. 30, 2008, and be completed within a year after. The proposed funding for projects must be limited to a maximum of 75 percent by the county and at least 25 percent by the municipality. However, the county’s share may be reduced from the 75 percent maximum if the total of all the accepted applications total more than the roughly $60,000 available. The County Bike Path program has helped to support construction of new trails, bike path information and maps, and safety programs since 1992. These programs include the City of Madison Ped-Bike Safety Coordinator Program and the Village of Brooklyn Bicycle Safety Day. Over the last two years, 13 different cities, villages, and towns have received these grants to improve bicycle travel and safety. Examples include new paths, bridges, and underpasses in Fitchburg, Verona, Middleton, Oregon and Stoughton. Attached is list of criteria necessary in applying for these funds. # # #